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HOUSTON (CBS Houston) The Astros President of Business Operations Reid Ryan announced his first appointment after being named president last week. Former Astros pitcher, manager, broadcaster and fan favorite Larry Dierker was appointed special assistant to the president Tuesday.

Dierker’s duties will include serving in an advisory role to Ryan, acting as a goodwill ambassador, handling speaking engagements and interacting with fans during games at Minute Maid Park. Dierker will also be writing for the Astros Gameday Magazine. Ryan and Astros Owner and Chairman Jim Crane met with Dierker at Minute Maid Park.

“I’m extremely pleased to be working with the Astros organization,” Dierker said in a team press release. “I had a great meeting with Reid and Jim today. I’m excited about interacting with the fans again and look forward to writing for the program. I take a great deal of pride in the organization and am anxious to be a part of it again.”

Dierker has been a part of the Astros for nearly 50 years as a pitcher, manager, broadcaster, and front office executive. As a two-time All-Star, Dierker holds club records for innings pitched, complete games and shutouts. His 137 career wins are third in franchise history. As a manager, he led the Astros to four division titles and has the best career winning pct. (.553, 448-362) in franchise history.

“Larry is a huge part of our history,” Ryan said. “He has a great deal of knowledge and years of experience that we will utilize. We’re excited that he is back in the organization and we know the fans will be as well.”